WHEN 'ARIGATO GOZAIMASU' IS NOT ENOUGH

Uniqlo's 'Thank You Festival,' which runs until May 29, is that time of year when the brand treats its valued customers with tempting deals and freebies.

- LAI S. REYES

Being thankful is one of the most luminous characteristics of the Japanese people, which makes them more endearing. It makes you realize how important it is to be thankful to others even for small deeds.

Just recently, Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo invited STAR Lifestyle to the launch of its bi-annual "Thank You Festival," which runs from May 23 to 29. At this pretty intimate gathering, Uniqlo head of PR and sustainability Reiny Vergara said there are two times in a year when they go all out to thank their patrons for their continued support.

"We hold the Uniqlo 'Thank You Festival' twice a year: in May and in November, because we just can't thank our loyal customers enough," she notes. "At Uniqlo, we truly value those who support us."

While the Japanese clothing brand regularly offers red-tag items, the Uniqlo "Thank You Festival" is that time of the year when they spoil Uniqlo pros with tempting deals and freebies.

And so, here's how Uniqlo expresses its gratitude online and in-store: